Today's News

HILLSVILLE — Since the beginning of the race for town mayor began last year, Hillsville had been stewing with long-held resentments, often vague accusations of wrongdoing by officials and rumors that political challengers would “clean house” in the town office if elected.
Those issues came to a boil Monday night as a crowd gathered in Hillsville Town Hall, filling the council meeting room and spilling out into hallways, the lobby and the sidewalks.

As expected, former governor and senator George Allen coasted to victory in a low-turnout primary Tuesday, earning the Republican nomination for the U.S. Senate seat he lost in 2006.
Allen had strong support in the Twin Counties, where he won a combined 84.2 percent of the vote in a four-way race and far outpaced his statewide share of 66 percent.

Increases to the meals, lodging, personal property, real estate and machinery and tools taxes will take effect July 1, after Galax City Council approved the 2013 budget on Monday.
The meals tax will increase from 5 to 7.5 percent; real estate tax from 62¢ to 67¢ per $100; personal property tax from $1.58 to $2.25 per $100; machinery and tools tax from $1.42 to $1.50 per $100; and lodging tax from 5 to 8 percent.

Public apology
This is the owner of [a restaurant] in Galax. I had a situation with a customer who was totally right. I am calling to apologize and say I am sorry. He was a good and loyal customer. I understand if he does not choose to come back. I would love him and his family to come back and I am very sorry and I wish him and his family the best.

HILLSVILLE — How the members of the Carroll County Board of Supervisors work together became a major topic at Monday’s county board meeting, as officials tried to talk matters out.
The nearly hour-long discussion arose from Pine Creek Supervisor Bob Martin’s assertions that information hasn’t been shared with him like it has been with other elected county officials.
Chairman Sam Dickson started off the conversation at the regular June meeting after adding a “code of ethics” agenda item.

HILLSVILLE — Carroll County Public Schools has received a total of 22 applications in its superintendent search, including 15 from Virginia, according to a news release.
The school board recently began a superintendent search after Greg Smith decided to resign his position to take over the leadership of Richmond County schools. He will depart at the end of June.